It ain't over until it's over

The legendary wordsmith Yogi Berra, a figure celebrated not only for his remarkable skills as a player but also for his insightful coaching, truly perfected the art of "coach speak." His renowned phrase, "It ain't over 'til it's over," was first declared in July 1973 while he was managing the New York Mets, a team that was facing significant challenges at the time.

At that moment in the season, the Mets were struggling considerably. They were beset by a series of injuries that had hampered their performance and left them languishing near the bottom of the National League East standings. The atmosphere was thick with uncertainty, and reporters, eager for a story, began to question whether the team’s season was effectively finished before it had even reached the halfway point. It was in the midst of this turmoil that Berra, with his characteristic optimism and wisdom, confidently responded with the now-iconic line, affirming his belief that there was still time to turn things around. His words resonated with both the team and the fans, instilling a sense of hope and determination.

True to his words, the Mets staged an extraordinary comeback that season, defying the odds and clinching the division title. This remarkable resurgence propelled them ultimately to the World Series, where they faced formidable opponents. Berra's phrase became a rallying cry, symbolizing the spirit of perseverance and the understanding that until the final whistle blows or the last out is made, anything is possible.

Perseverance, a theme that resonates deeply within various narratives, is depicted in many places in the Bible; however, it is subtly illustrated in Mark Chapter 2. This particular chapter recounts the event where Jesus forgives the sins of and heals a paralyzed man who was lowered through a roof to meet Him. The story serves as a profound metaphor for faith, determination, and the lengths to which individuals will go to seek healing and redemption.

What often goes unnoticed in this powerful story are the four men who carried the paralyzed man to Jesus. Mark, the author of this Gospel, omits many crucial details that could provide further insight into the determination and resolve of these individuals. How long did they carry him to reach Jesus? What drove them to climb onto the roof in the first place? Imagine the considerable challenge of dismantling Peter’s roof to create an opening large enough to lower their friend down—this act required not only physical strength but also a level of ingenuity and perhaps even a disregard for the potential consequences of their actions, not to mention the legality of such an act.

These men were resolute in their mission. Every obstacle that stood in their path to Jesus was to be conquered through sheer will and determination. They faced the crowd, the physical burden of their friend, and the structural challenges of the roof, yet their focus remained unwavering. For them, it was not over until it was over, reflecting an unshakeable faith in the possibility of healing.

Imagine their surprise and perhaps their initial disappointment when, after all their efforts, they heard that the man's sins were to be forgiven first. Surely, they thought, “Who cares about his sins? We brought him all this way so he could be healed and walk!” Their expectations were challenged, but in that moment, they witnessed the profound truth that Jesus prioritized spiritual healing above physical restoration. Jesus did, indeed, heal the man, but it was on His timing and for the purpose of glorifying God, illustrating that divine plans often unfold in ways that transcend human understanding.

Similarly, in the realm of sports, we encounter numerous opportunities to overcome challenging situations and difficult seasons. It is essential for us to keep team goals at the forefront and to set aside personal aspirations that may detract from our collective mission. We need to recognize that it truly isn’t over until it’s over, and that belief can fuel our resilience in the face of adversity.

Our faith should mirror the passion and determination of the four stretcher bearers who sought Jesus. We too need to seek Him with the same resolve and commitment, understanding that our journey may be fraught with challenges, yet it is within those challenges that our character is forged. Ultimately, God is in control of everything, and the more we seek Him and align our will with His, the more peace we will find as we navigate our time on earth, regardless of the circumstances we face.

As another season draws to a close, my prayer is that our athletes will take a moment to reflect on the obstacles and setbacks they have encountered along the way. I hope they recognize that these experiences have played a crucial role in shaping us into the cohesive team we are heading into the playoffs. I pray they will find the strength to praise God and see His hand in all that we do, understanding that every challenge faced has brought us closer together and prepared us for the journey ahead.